How to make Plutonium | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Scientists synthesize plutonium-238 to power spacecraft that travel to distant places too far from the Sun to use solar cells.

Key Insights

• ✊ Plutonium-238 is crucial for powering spacecraft traveling to remote locations.
• ❓ The production of neptunium oxide pellets is automated for efficiency and precision.
• ❣️ Safety measures, such as heavy shielding and precautions while handling dangerous materials, are implemented during the chemical processing.
• 🏆 The material undergoes various tests to ensure quality and concentration levels.
• ☠️ The production rate of targets is being increased to meet the growing demand for plutonium-238 in space missions.
• 🗯️ Even dangerous experiments can be conducted safely with the right precautions and equipment.
• 👾 The excitement and pride of contributing indirectly to space missions are evident among the scientists involved.

Transcript

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Questions & Answers

Q: Why is plutonium-238 used to power spacecraft in distant locations?

Plutonium-238 generates heat through radioactive decay, providing power where solar cells are not feasible due to the distance from the Sun.

Q: How is neptunium converted to a solid oxide powder?

Neptunium, supplied as a solution, undergoes a process involving a rotary kiln to convert it to a low concentration oxide powder.

Q: What is the purpose of pressing neptunium oxide mixed with aluminum powder into pellets?

The pressed pellets serve as fuel for spacecraft, ensuring controlled and efficient power generation during the mission.

Q: How is the quality of the pellets ensured?

The pellets are measured for diameter and length using lasers, and a visual inspection is performed to verify the presence of neutron oxide (dark green color) and plutonium oxide (purplish/magenta color).

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Plutonium-238 is synthesized from neptunium and used to generate heat through radioactive decay, powering spacecraft for missions in remote locations.

• Neptunium, supplied as a liquid solution, is converted to a solid oxide powder through a process involving a rotary kiln.

• The neptunium oxide is mixed with aluminum powder, pressed into pellets, and measured for quality before being used as fuel in spacecraft.